Cancer Survivors To Unite At 2nd Annual Survivorship Symposium

WESTPORT — The American Cancer Society will host its 2nd Annual Survivorship symposium, “United in Hope,” a forum for cancer survivors and caregivers, on Saturday, September 23, from 8 am to 2 pm, at Fairfield County Hunt Club.

Featured speakers include Dr Robert Starr Folman, a practicing oncologist with Oncology Associates of Bridgeport, who will discuss the importance of patient/physician communications, and American Cancer Society grant recipient Steven D. Harris, PhD, from the University of Connecticut Health Center, who will present an overview of his studies on DNA repair and its role in cancer prevention.

Susan Richter, the American Cancer Society’s vice president for patient support, will also speak, along with three cancer survivors who will share their personal experiences and triumphs with the disease. The day will begin with a continental breakfast and a welcome from conference facilitators Linnah Mademadu from the American Cancer Society and Debbie Nilson, a cervical cancer survivor from Ridgefield.

Participants will then have a choice to attend two of six health-related workshops, including music therapy, yoga, meditation, reiki, healing energy, and a personal image/massage session. A healthy lunch will be served and each survivor will receive an award at the conclusion of the day.

According to Chris Boynton, regional vice president of the Southwestern Connecticut American Cancer Society, “The symposium gives the society a chance to celebrate the lives of local cancer survivors, honor their courage, and thank them for the endless inspiration and hope they give others and to the work of the American Cancer Society.”

There is no fee to attend the inspirational day of sharing. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged, but walk-in registration will be available. For more information about “United In Hope,” or to make a reservation, contact Linnah Madumadu at the American Cancer Society, 800/889-3340, extension 224.